How to update your bank and financial providers when you move
Your bank, credit card companies, and any other financial providers need your current address. It's not just about receiving post — your address is part of your identity verification, and mismatches can cause problems with payments, credit checks, and fraud alerts.
Who do I need to tell?
Think about every financial product you have: current accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, loans, mortgages, ISAs, pensions, investment accounts, and PayPal or other payment services. Each one needs updating separately.
How to update
Most banks and providers let you change your address through their app or online banking. Some require you to call. A few still need you to visit a branch. Set aside 15–20 minutes and work through them all in one sitting.
Why does it matter for credit?
Credit reference agencies (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) link your financial accounts to your address. If your bank has one address and the electoral roll has another, it can look inconsistent and affect your credit score.
Don't forget these
People often forget about: premium bonds (NS&I), student loan company, workplace pension provider, stocks and shares ISAs, and any buy-now-pay-later accounts (Klarna, Clearpay). Make a list and tick them off. You'll also need to tell HMRC if you're self-employed, or update HMRC for PAYE if you're employed.
Common questions
- Can I change my bank address before I move?
- Most banks let you set a future effective date. Some will only accept the change once you're at the new address.
- Do I need to update joint accounts separately?
- If both account holders are moving, both may need to update their address. Check with your bank — some update it for the whole account, others per person.
- What about direct debits?
- Direct debits are linked to your account, not your address, so they'll continue working. But update your address anyway to keep your records straight. Setting up Royal Mail redirection will catch any post that still goes to your old address while you update everything.
Related guides
- How to redirect your post when you move houseSet up Royal Mail redirection when moving house. Choose 3, 6, or 12 months. Here's how it works, what it costs, and when to set it up.
- How to update your subscription and delivery addresses when movingMoving house? Don't forget to update your delivery addresses on Amazon, subscriptions, and regular deliveries. Here's a checklist.
- How to tell HMRC you've moved houseSelf-employed or receive tax credits? You must tell HMRC when you move house. Here's how to update your address online in minutes.
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